Paul Cotter of the Devils may soon face disciplinary measures.
The NHL Department of Player Safety announced on Sunday that they will hold a hearing with the New Jersey Devils forward concerning an illegal check to the head of Adam Pelech from the New York Islanders.
The hearing announcement comes shortly after the incident during the Islanders` 1-0 victory over the Devils.
Cotter was assessed a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct in the second period. This occurred after he moved quickly towards Pelech, who was in the process of sending the puck into New York`s offensive zone, and collided with the Islanders defenseman.
Pelech was seen bleeding after the hit and left the game, expressing his anger towards Cotter, and did not return.
Following the game, New York`s coach, Patrick Roy, didn`t update on Pelech`s condition but commented that `it`s the type of hit we don`t like to see,` when speaking with reporters.
If Cotter is disciplined, it would be his first NHL fine or suspension in his four seasons (271 games). This is Cotter`s first season playing for New Jersey.
Both the Devils and Islanders will play again on Tuesday. New Jersey is scheduled to visit the Boston Bruins, while New York will host the Washington Capitals.
Tristan Blackwood